Your hair appointment is set and you don't just want a trim--you want a brand-new look! How can you make sure the cut you've been eying will actually look good on you? The secret to success lies in the shape of your face. Is it round, oval, square, or heart-shaped?

Steps

1

Figure out the shape of your face.

2

Stand before the bathroom mirror.

3

Using a bar of soap or an old eyeliner pencil, trace the outline of your face on the mirror.

4

Step back and survey the result. You should see the outline of a shape, and that shape is the key to your best cut ever! Once you've scrubbed the mirror, you can get down to important business. It's the shape game! Which one best matches your outline?

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Tips

Listen to the experts. Ask your stylist if she thinks the style will work for you. She's a pro, so listen up--if she says your chosen cut is wrong for your hair type or features, you may want to reconsider.

Just say so. If you're not happy with the results, it's okay to let your stylist know--in fact, you should speak up! No need for a meltdown--just calmly say, "This part isn't really working for me," or "I'm not happy with the way it sticks out so much here." She may be able to fix whatever is bothering you, and that's practically guaranteed to give you better results. After all, any style will look a whole lot cuter when you're smiling!

Don't be afraid to speak up. Your stylist wants you to love your new 'do, but she can't read your mind. You know what you want, so don't hesitate to tell her--and be specific!

Get the post-cut lowdown. How hard will it be to style your new 'do? Will you have to blow-dry or use a flat iron? Do you need gel? You won't love the cut if you hate the upkeep, so be sure to ask!

It's worth a thousand words...and more. That's right--bring in a picture or two from a magazine! Tell her exactly what you like about the styles, and why you think they'll work for you.

Talk to your stylist, and make sure you walk away with the cut you want!